From March 2020, during the height of the Covid 19 crisis, Vietnam has decided to temporarily suspend visa issuance for all foreigners entering the country. This decision was made by the prime minister himself in an effort to combat the rapid spread of the deadly virus.

Like most countries in Asia, Vietnam was not spared of the Covid 19. In fact, there were hundreds of confirmed cases in the country. Most of these cases were due to foreign transmissions. By preventing the entry of foreign individuals, Vietnam was able to contain the spread of the disease.

Now that things are going back to normal, Vietnam hopes to boost its tourism economy once again. It has opened the issuance of visas for all foreign visitors. So for Finnish citizens who are planning to go on a holiday in Vietnam, it’s time to apply for your visa.

Do Finnish Citizens Need a Visa to Vietnam?

Citizens of Finland can enter Vietnam without a visa. However, you can only stay in the country for a maximum of 15 days. If you want to get the most out of your vacation, it is a good idea to spend at least a month in the country. Besides, it’s now so easy for Finnish citizens to get a visa for Vietnam.

As a citizen of Finland, there are two types of visa that you are eligible to avail. First is the e-visa and another is the visa on arrival. The former is an electronic visa that you can apply over the Internet while the latter is a visa that you can get on arrival. Both visas are easy to avail of.

So what’s the difference between the two visas, you may ask? The e-visa will grant you a single entry to the country with a maximum stay of 30 days. Whereas the visa on arrival will let you choose between a single entry and multiple entries. The visa on arrival will also allow you to stay in Vietnam for up to 60 days.

How Can Finnish Citizens Apply for the Vietnam E-visa?

E-visa is a shortened term for electronic visas. This visa is the online version of the standard visa that foreign visitors can apply from the Vietnam embassy. The entire process of applying for this visa is done online. Here are the steps.

1. Go online and fill out the visa application form. Provide your name, nationality, passport number, and everything that it asks from you. Make sure you entered these details correctly. So double-check before you proceed.
2. On the next page, you’ll be asked to upload a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page. You can simply take a photo of this page but make sure it is clear. Then upload it on the application form. You’ll also be asked to submit a passport-sized photo so make sure you have this ready.

3. Next, prepare your card because you’ll be asked to pay for the processing fee. It’s also possible to pay with your PayPal account. Submit your application and wait for an email confirmation.
4. After about 3 business days, you’ll receive a copy of your e-visa. Print this and this is what you’ll show the Vietnam Immigration upon entry.

How Can Finnish Citizens Apply for the Vietnam Visa on Arrival

Take note that you cannot just show up in Vietnam and expect to be given a Visa on Arrival. There are certain requirements that you need to apply ahead of time. So here’s how you can apply for the Visa on Arrival.

1. Fill out the application form online to register. Provide your complete name, nationality, passport number, and other details. Review everything and submit.
2. After a few days, you’ll receive an email for a copy of your pre-approval letter. Print the letter and bring it on your trip. When you arrive in Vietnam, proceed to the visa counter and give your passport along with the letter. You also need to pay for the stamping fee of around $25. They only accept cash and you can pay in either the US Dollar or Vietnam Dong currency.
3. Wait on one side while the officer processes your visa. If your visa is done, you will be called to the visa counter. The officer will give you back your passport and it already has the visa in it.

Remember that the Visa on Arrival is only available at the airports. So if you are traveling by land, this option will not work for you. For those who are crossing borders, the e-visa is a better option. This visa is acceptable in various points of entry around the country. Aside from the airport and land borders, the e-visa can also be used when entering through the seaports.